06-04-2026 Property Committee

The Athens-Clarke County Property Committee convened on June 4, 2026, to discuss leasing policies for historic properties owned by the county. The meeting focused extensively on evaluating the application of triple net leases—specifically standard versus absolute triple net leases—to historic landmarks and districts. Committee members reviewed maintenance and capital costs associated with several historic buildings, including the Brumby House and Taylor Grady House, noting that current leases do not generate rental income despite significant upkeep expenses. The discussion included potential lease terms, tenant responsibilities for maintenance, and the feasibility of longer lease durations to support nonprofit tenants' fundraising efforts. The committee also considered offering discounted lease rates to nonprofits to balance community benefits with cost recovery. Action items included further analysis of insurance costs, property tax equivalents, and exploring lease structures that could better align tenant responsibilities with county maintenance obligations. The committee expressed interest in continuing to differentiate lease terms based on tenant type (nonprofit, quasi-governmental, for-profit) and historic designation status, with a preference toward adopting a standard triple net lease model as a first step.